Bonsai : is the art of
growing trees and shrubs, reducing their size by pruning and thereby creating
a pleasing shape as well as creating an illusion of age. Bonsai means tray
gardening and the art originated in China over 200 years ago. Over 700 years
ago the art was brought to Japan and this is where modern Bonsai evolved.
The plants are kept small by shaping the branches and pruning the roots. It is
said that a well-maintained bonsai will outlive a “normal” tree of the
same species.
We are interested in seeing the use of Australian native trees and shrubs as
bonsai specimens. Unfortunately bonsai is a time consuming hobby and because
of our other obsessions will be content to admire other people’s
horticultural masterpieces.
Many Australian natives have been used as bonsai specimens and no doubt there
are many more that will lend themselves to this ancient art form.
Banksias, Callitris (Native Cypress Pines) Casuarinas (Sheoaks), Leptospermums
(Teatrees) and Melaleucas are some genera that have been used. The image shows
a bonsai Banksia integrifolia that we observed at a garden show. Banksia
serrata was another specimen that was displayed.
We are sure that some of the Acacias (Wattles) would be suitable, particularly
long-lived species such as Acacia melanoxylon, the Blackwood. The
Callistemons (Bottlebrushes) and even some of the Eucalypts would be worth
trying.
We would be interested to hear from any bonsai enthusiasts that are growing
Australian natives.